MRW Issue 53

ISSUE 53
FEEL THE
RUSH
RIDING THE MV BRUTALE RUSH 1000
ROAD
RAGE!
THE NORTH WEST 200: SCORCHING SPEED,
LOCAL GLORY, AND SOUTH AFRICAN GRIT
MORE FOR
LESS
REVISITING THE KTM 890 ADVENTURE R
VIVA LA
ZARCO
HOME HERO TAKES THE WIN IN
FRONT OF RECORD CROWD.

EDITOR’S NOTE
Welcome to Issue 53 of Moto Rider
World!
As always, we’re back with the latest and
greatest from the world of two wheels,
bringing you the most exciting news,
reviews, and features from both local
and international scenes. This month’s
issue is particularly jam-packed with highrevving
content, and we can’t wait for you
to dive in.
We kick things off with something fresh
and fast—South Africa is now home to
the all-new Dunlop Moto3 soft-compound
slick tyres. These high-performance
tyres are sure to shake things up on the
track, and we’re excited to see how they
perform under local conditions.
Then, we swing a leg over the 2024 KTM
890 Adventure R for another go. It’s a
bike that continues to impress, and we’ve
taken it through its paces once again to
see how it fares in the real world.
We’re also thrilled to introduce you to
one of South Africa’s most promising
young exports—David Linderman—who’s
been making serious waves in the British
Superbike Championship. Keep your
eyes on this rising star; big things are
coming.
In our Dunlop Racing pages, it’s all
about intensity as the Supercross
series approaches its climax, with
the championship still hanging in the
balance. Over in MotoAmerica, we once
again shine a spotlight on the South
African trio—Dominic Doyle, Cameron
Petersen, and Mathew Scholtz—who
continue to make us proud abroad.
Also in this issue, we take a first look at
Royal Enfield’s all-new Bear 650, which
brings a rugged, retro charm to modern
motorcycling. And for fans of the British
Superbike scene, we have a stellar photo
feature from Born Photos that captures
the heart and soul of the paddock.
Lastly, we’d like to extend a huge thank
you to our loyal advertisers—especially
the new ones joining us this issue. Your
support keeps the wheels turning, and
we urge our readers to support those
who support us.
Don’t forget to follow us on social
media to stay up to date with everything
between the pages—and beyond.
CONTRIBUTORS
Beam Productions
Sheridan Morais
CONTACT
DETAILS
EDITOR/OWNER
Shaun Portman
072 260 9525
shaunpotman@gmail.com
Copyright © Moto Rider World:
All rights reserved. No part of this
publication may be reproduced,
distributed, or transmitted in any
form or by any means, including
photocopying, articles, or other
methods, without the prior written
permission of the publisher.
KTM 890 ADVENTURE R
Our garage also just got a little more
exciting with the arrival of our new
long-termer, the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX.
Over the next six months, we’ll be
documenting everything—rides,
maintenance, performance, and more.
We’ve also equipped it with a set of BATT
HPll Series tyres to see how they hold up
over the long haul. Stay tuned, it’s going
to be a proper endurance test.
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R20 000
DEAL ASSIST

NEWS DESK
NOW IN SOUTH AFRICA: THE 2025
ROYAL ENFIELD BEAR 650
There’s something unmistakably cool about a
motorcycle that doesn’t try too hard. The new
Royal Enfield Bear 650, now available in South
Africa, is a machine that balances old-school
charisma with modern-day usability—and it does
so without shouting for attention. Retailing from
just R136,500 and available through Moto Royale
dealerships nationwide, this new model invites
riders to rediscover the joy of uncomplicated
motorcycling.
Inspired by Royal Enfield’s rich scrambler
heritage, the Bear 650 pays homage to a defining
moment in the brand’s off-road legacy. Back in
1960, a teenage Eddie Mulder shocked the world
by winning the grueling Big Bear desert race
aboard a 500cc Enfield Fury. That spirit of dusty
defiance lives on in the Bear’s upright silhouette,
kicked-up rear loop, and minimalist bench seat.
From its block-pattern tyres to its robust stance,
this is a bike that tells a story—one of freedom,
resilience, and retro-inspired rebellion.
Beneath its vintage skin lies a proven heart: Royal
Enfield’s beloved 648cc parallel twin, the same aircooled
unit found in the Interceptor, Continental
GT, and Shotgun. With 47bhp and an increased
torque figure of 56.5Nm, it’s a powerplant that
delivers smooth, linear acceleration and a
rewarding mid-range thump. This isn’t a race
machine, but it isn’t sluggish either. It’s got
enough punch to make open road rides enjoyable,
and enough flexibility to handle the stop-start
rhythm of city life.
But what separates the Bear from its siblings
isn’t just styling—it’s the reworked chassis. Royal
Enfield has fitted 43mm Showa big piston upsidedown
forks and revised the geometry to create a
more upright, commanding ride. The twin shock
setup at the rear has also been updated, paired
with mid-mounted footpegs and a wide handlebar
to give riders a balanced, responsive posture.
With 830mm of seat height and a more generous
reach to the bars, taller riders will appreciate the
room to move, while everyone else benefits from
the scrambler’s confident, go-anywhere attitude.

NEWS DESK
Though the Bear 650 looks ready to take on
the trails, it’s more road-focused than it might
seem at first glance. Its dual-purpose MRF tyres
wrapped around 19-inch front and 17-inch rear
wheels are best suited to urban backstreets and
the occasional gravel detour rather than serious
off-roading. The rear suspension errs on the firmer
side, which adds a degree of sharpness in spirited
riding but may feel stiff on long, bumpy roads.
Still, it’s a fair trade-off for the added control and
ground clearance.
Technology has been tastefully integrated. A new
circular TFT dash with Tripper navigation brings
Google Maps to your bars, while full LED lighting
modernises the retro shell. A USB-C charging port
and removable rubber footpeg inserts show a
clear focus on everyday practicality. And for those
planning weekend escapes, Royal Enfield offers
an array of factory accessories including comfort
seats, engine guards, and soft luggage solutions.
Ultimately, the Bear 650 is not about pushing
performance boundaries. It’s about feel. It’s about
hopping on a bike that makes you grin every time
you fire it up, whether you’re navigating Jozi traffic
or chasing the sunset out near Magaliesberg.
With its accessible price tag, timeless design, and
relaxed nature, the Bear invites new riders and
seasoned enthusiasts alike to experience what
made motorcycling magical in the first place.
Royal Enfield hasn’t reinvented the wheel with
the Bear—but they’ve captured the essence of
motorcycling at its purest. And for many, that’s
more than enough.
Available now through authorised Moto Royale
dealers across South Africa. Visit www.motoroyale.co.za
to locate your nearest showroom and
take the Bear for a test ride.

NEWS DESK
WE’VE COLLECTED OUR NEW LONG-
TERM TEST BIKE – MEET THE
SUZUKI GSX-S1000GX!
But there’s more. The GX will be out and about
across the country—and if you’re lucky enough
to spot it, you’re in for a treat. Scan the QR
Code on the bike when you see it and you could
score yourself a free Suzuki T-shirt. Better yet,
take a selfie with the bike and tag us using
#MotoRiderWorld, #PrimroseMotorcycles, and
#SuzukiSouthAfrica, and share that on the QR
code.
So what exactly makes the GSX-S1000GX so
special? At its core, it’s powered by a 999cc
inline-four engine derived from the legendary
GSX-R1000, tuned for broader midrange
performance and smooth delivery. The riding
position is upright and commanding, giving riders
confidence and comfort over long stints, while the
suspension travel and higher ground clearance
hint at light adventure capabilities. The star of the
show, however, is the all-new Suzuki Advanced
Electronic Suspension (SAES), which adapts in
real time to changing road conditions, rider input,
and passenger load, delivering a silky, controlled
ride that’s unlike anything Suzuki has done before.
Visually, the GX strikes a sharp pose. Its angular
bodywork, elevated tail section, and wide front
fairing give it a presence that’s both aggressive
and premium. It looks ready for action — and
that’s exactly what we plan to give it.
With a retail price of R299,900, the GSX-S1000GX
enters a competitive sport-touring segment,
but with its mix of high-end features, proven
performance, and Suzuki reliability, it stands tall
as one of the most intriguing offerings in its class.
The next six months are going to be a blast. Keep
an eye on all our Moto Rider World platforms as
we bring you regular updates, videos, ride reports,
and ownership insights. From the daily grind to
high-speed thrills, we’re going to find out just how
far the GSX-S1000GX can go.
Let the journey begin.
A new adventure begins at Moto Rider World as
we welcome the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX into our
garage as our latest long-term test bike. Collected
from the awesome team at Primrose Motorcycles
and made possible by the incredible support from
Suzuki South Africa, this bike represents more
than just a new ride—it’s the start of a six-month
journey that will dive deep into the real-world
experience of living with Suzuki’s sport crossover.
The GSX-S1000GX is no ordinary machine. It’s
Suzuki’s boldest take yet on blending sportsbike
DNA with the comfort and capability of a modern
tourer. With its GSX-R-derived engine, upright
ergonomics, and the brand’s first-ever electronic
suspension system, this bike aims to be the
perfect all-rounder—equally at home charging
through mountain passes as it is eating up longdistance
miles on the open road.
Over the coming months, we’ll put the GX to
the test in every scenario imaginable. From
daily commuting and weekend getaways to
servicing, maintenance, and fuel economy, we’ll
be exploring what it’s truly like to live with this
machine day in and day out. Our aim is to give
you, our readers and viewers, honest feedback
on comfort, handling, performance, and that allimportant
“liveability” factor that makes or breaks
a touring bike.
We’ve already put the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX through its paces, even
giving it its first wash after getting caught in some rough weather.
Still, it’s an absolute joy to ride, and we’re looking forward to many
more happy miles ahead, rain or shine.

NEWS DESK
TRIUMPH UNVEILS
LIMITED-EDITION SPEED
TRIPLE 1200 RX FOR 2025
Triumph Motorcycles has introduced the exclusive Speed Triple
1200 RX for 2025, limited to just 1,200 units worldwide. Designed
for peak performance and track-focused precision, the RX
builds on the legacy of the Speed Triple 1200 RS with even more
advanced technology, enhanced ergonomics, and striking design.
Sharper Ergonomics, Track-Ready Posture
The RX features a more aggressive riding position, achieved
through clip-on handlebars and a machined top yoke that sit
69mm lower and 52mm further forward than those on the RS.
Footpegs are also 14.5mm higher and 25.5mm further back,
giving the RX a compact, purposeful stance designed for total
control on the road or track.
Precision Suspension & Steering Control
Öhlins SmartEC3 semi-active suspension is standard, tuned via
the Objective Based Tuning Interface (OBTi) for dynamic real-time
adjustments across riding scenarios. Complementing this is the
electronically controlled Öhlins SD EC steering damper, ensuring
precise handling and maximum stability through every corner.
Performance Enhancements
Unique to the RX is a titanium Akrapovič silencer with carbon
fibre detailing, laser-etched branding, and optimized flow. A new
performance seat featuring an embossed RX logo improves rider
movement and comfort during aggressive riding.

NEWS DESK
Striking New Design
Visually, the RX stands apart with its exclusive Triumph
Performance Yellow and Granite graphics, white
RX accents, and carbon fibre detailing on the front
mudguard and tank. A matching yellow rear wheel
accent completes the aggressive, race-inspired look.
Uncompromising Power & Refinement
Powered by Triumph’s 1160cc triple engine, the RX
delivers 183PS at 10,750rpm and 128Nm of torque
at 8,750rpm—each a 3-unit increase over the previous
generation. Engine refinements, inspired by Triumph’s
Moto2 development program, include a revised
dynamic crankshaft balancing strategy for improved
smoothness and durability.
Razor-Sharp Handling
The new frame and lightweight wheels reduce
rotational mass, enhancing agility. Wider handlebars
than previous models offer a balanced mix of stability
and control, while a lithium-ion battery helps keep
total weight down to just 199kg wet. Pirelli Diablo
Supercorsa SP V3 tyres provide track-level grip with
road-ready compliance.
High-Spec Braking
Braking is handled by top-tier Brembo Stylema®
calipers paired with a Brembo MCS span and ratioadjustable
lever, delivering exceptional stopping power
and feel, even under extreme load.
Cutting-Edge Electronics & Rider Aids
The RX comes loaded with adjustable tech, including
Front Wheel Lift Control, Engine Braking Control, and
Brake Slide Control. Five riding modes (Rain, Road,
Sport, Track, Rider), Optimised Cornering ABS and
Traction Control, and Triumph Shift Assist (up/down
quickshifter) ensure peak performance across all
conditions.
Advanced Interface & Connectivity
A 5-inch TFT display offers intuitive access via a fiveway
joystick and backlit controls. The My Triumph
Connectivity System supports navigation, phone, and
music functions. Additional convenience features
include keyless ignition, cruise control, and a new
Emergency Deceleration Warning system.
A Word from Triumph
Paul Stroud, Chief Commercial Officer at Triumph,
commented: “The Speed Triple 1200 RX offers the
ultimate riding experience. Its focused ergonomics,
cutting-edge tech, and limited production make it a
dream for track day riders and collectors alike.”

NEWS DESK
NEW DUNLOP
SPORTMAX
SLICKS (SOFT
COMPOUND) NOW
AVAILABLE IN
SOUTH AFRICA!
Exciting news for local racers – the new soft
compound Dunlop Sportmax Slicks are now
available across South Africa. Previously known
as the Moto3 slicks, these tires were once used in
the Moto3 class during MotoGP weekends before
Pirelli took over the series.
Designed for high cornering speeds on 125cc
two-strokes and 250cc four-stroke Grand Prix
machines, these slicks deliver exceptional grip,
stability, and durability – even under intense race
conditions.
Tyre Sizes:
Front: 90/80 x 17 (Soft)
Rear: 115/70 x 17 (Soft)
These slicks have become especially popular in
South Africa’s 150cc racing class, where they’re
widely used on Honda CBR150 race bikes.
Previously, the medium compound was the go-to
option, known for dependable grip and longevity.
Now, with the new soft compound, riders can
expect even more cornering performance without
compromising on wear.
Retail Price: R4,650
Available now at your nearest Dunlop Motorcycle
dealer.

NEWS DESK
FROM FARM TRACKS TO MAIN CIRCUIT
BATTLES: CODIE REDELINGHUYS IS
RACING INTO THE FUTURE
At just sixteen years old, Codie Redelinghuys
is making waves in South African motorcycle
racing—not by following a typical path, but by
forging her own. With a natural feel for two wheels,
an unstoppable drive, and the grip of BATT UHP-
CS tyres beneath her, she’s proving that passion,
grit, and raw talent can take you a long way.
Her journey didn’t begin with trophies or team
garages. It started on a dusty farm track, riding
a stubborn Honda CRF150R around makeshift
loops, chasing her father on his enduro bike
through trails more accustomed to livestock
than race lines. It was there, dodging goats and
weaving between alpacas, that Codie fell in
love with riding. Her dad, a former racer with a
history that stretches from NC30s to full-blown
superbikes, unknowingly lit the fire that would
soon define her path.
From those informal beginnings, Codie quickly
became more than just a farm-track thrill-seeker.
She pieced together old gear, leaned on friends
of friends, and found herself at Killarney’s short
circuit aboard a borrowed CBR150. The bike was
tired, the tyres were worn, and the styling didn’t
exactly scream “future champion,” but what she
lacked in polish, she made up for in heart.
That first session wasn’t smooth. But it was
enough. Enough to know she belonged on a
racetrack. Enough to set a goal: keep learning,
keep pushing, and keep showing up. From there
came more laps, more late nights in the garage,
and more weekends spent building confidence in
the seat.
Her hard work paid off when she made the leap
to the main circuit. A new chapter began with a
Yamaha R3 and entry into the fiercely competitive
BATT-Tech Powersport Class. Built for affordability
and equal footing, the class features bikes ranging
from 300cc to 650cc, all running on BATT UHP-
CS Ultra High Performance Cut Slicks—tyres
that offer incredible grip across a wide range of
conditions, and the same tyres used by seasoned
front-runners.
Codie thrived. Her feel for the bike sharpened,
her lap times dropped, and with each outing,
she grew more confident. Then came another
big step—this time to a 650cc machine. It was a
challenge, a leap into deeper waters, but Codie
was ready. Every time she lines up, she races with
more precision, more speed, and more presence.
“It’s not always easy,” she admits, “but I love it.
I’ve learned to push past fear and focus on what I
can control. And I trust my tyres completely.”
In a sport where the spotlight can often overlook
young women, Codie is writing her own story—one
that isn’t about proving anything to anyone else,
but about chasing a dream on her own terms. She
rides with a quiet confidence and a fierce resolve,
inspiring not only other young riders but anyone
who’s ever thought of stepping outside the norm.
Her message is simple but powerful: “Everything’s
real, and anything’s possible.”
With that mindset—and the results to back it up—
Codie Redelinghuys isn’t just a name to remember.
She’s a rider to watch. From alpacas and farm
gates to chequered flags and championship
podiums, her journey is just getting started.

NEWS DESK
near-impossible by the cold, the fact that he was
able to maintain both stability and control spoke
volumes about the HP2’s wet-weather prowess.
This wasn’t just a casual Sunday ride. This was
a full-blown test of tyre feel, edge grip, and rider
confidence on one of the world’s most demanding
racetracks. That the HP2s performed without
fault under such stress is not only impressive, but
reassuring for riders who face similar unpredictability
on public roads — especially as South Africa begins
to slide into the colder grip of winter.
Built for the street, tested in the wet at the highest
level, and trusted when grip matters most — the
BATT HP2s have firmly staked their claim as an
all-weather performance tyre that doesn’t back
down when the skies open up.
While many riders store their bikes away as the
temperatures fall and the rain begins to settle in,
there remains a growing number who brave the
winter months. For them, the question has always
been: what tyres can truly handle it all? With the
HP2s proving their worth on the same curves
that have challenged MotoGP and WorldSBK
champions, BATT may have just delivered a
convincing answer.
BATT PERFORMANCE IN THE WET:
HP2 ROAD TYRES SHINE AT ASSEN
Assen Circuit in the Netherlands — a hallowed
ground for motorcycle racing, revered globally as
the “Cathedral of Speed” — played host to a true
test of grit, machinery, and tyre performance on
what could only be described as a brutally cold
and soaking wet day. With the rain coming down
relentlessly and the track surface hovering at a
biting 0°C, conditions were far from ideal for any
form of performance riding. Yet, in the face of
these elements, a remarkable display unfolded
that showcased the true capability of BATT’s HP2
road tyres.
At the centre of the story was Mick, one of the
Netherlands’ top riders and the well-respected
owner of Mick’s Motorshop. No stranger to the
limits of traction and lean, Mick had arrived at the
iconic circuit with the intention of pushing some
laps on his BMW. However, without access to
rain-specific tyres and with the BATT UHP-CS
cut slicks deemed too aggressive for such wet
conditions, Mick made the bold decision to run
a set of BATT HP2 supersport road tyres — tyres
designed primarily for street use, not for cold, rainslicked
racing circuits.
What followed was a true testament to the
engineering behind the HP2s. Despite the
daunting conditions, Mick managed to carve
through corners at a lean angle of up to 40
degrees. With sheets of water glistening on the
tarmac and tyre temperature management made

New from Gearsell:
Motorcycle Dashcam
with Dual Recording
and Optional Tyre
Pressure Monitors
Motorcyclists across South Africa now have a
smarter, safer way to capture their rides and
monitor their bikes in real-time with the latest
innovation from Gearsell. Introducing their allnew
Motorcycle Dashcam system—an advanced
solution designed to deliver crystal-clear recording,
seamless connectivity, and enhanced safety
features whether you’re commuting, touring, or
simply enjoying the open road.
Available in two configurations, the Gearsell
dashcam system is tailored to meet the needs of all
riders. For those looking to go the extra mile in terms
of safety, the top-tier model includes integrated tyre
pressure monitoring and retails for R5195, including
nationwide courier. A more streamlined version
without the tyre sensors is priced at R4495, also
including delivery anywhere in South Africa. Both
versions come ready to use with a 128GB SD card,
ensuring hours of front and rear full HD recording.
At the heart of the system is its dual-camera
setup, offering simultaneous 1080P recording
from both the front and rear of the motorcycle.
Whether you’re capturing stunning coastal rides or
gathering footage for insurance purposes, this setup
ensures no detail goes unnoticed. With IP67-rated
waterproofing, the unit is built to withstand the
unpredictable South African weather, from torrential
rain to dusty gravel roads.
Connectivity has also taken a
leap forward with the inclusion
of built-in 5G WiFi and wireless
Apple CarPlay and Android
Auto support. Riders can stay
effortlessly connected to
their smartphones, enjoying
seamless access to navigation,
music, calls, and even voice
commands without ever needing
to pull out a phone or remove
gloves. The built-in Bluetooth
system adds another layer of
convenience, allowing intuitive control
of the device and integration into existing helmet
communication setups.
For those who opt for the tyre pressure monitoring
variant, real-time feedback on tire health becomes
part of the ride, giving peace of mind and helping to
avoid sudden deflations or punctures. The system
provides accurate, on-the-fly pressure readings—
particularly valuable for long-distance touring or
off-road adventures where quick detection of tire
issues can make a world of difference.
This new offering from Gearsell brings together
safety, technology, and practicality in a package
that’s hard to beat for its price point and feature set.
It’s a must-have for today’s tech-savvy rider who
values protection, data, and riding smarter.
For more information or to place an order,
contact Ian Schnehage from Gearsell Sales and
Marketing directly at 082 886 7234. Whether
you’re a weekend warrior or a daily commuter, this
dashcam setup might just be your most valuable
riding companion yet.

Just Landed at Bike
Kings: Alpinestars
Supertech R Vented
Yellow Fluo Black
Almost every component of the Supertech R
Vented Boot, Alpinestars’ definitive racing boot as
worn by a roster of champions past and present,
has undergone a rigorous program of upgrades
to sharpen its performance features even further.
Featuring extensive perforations throughout
for maximum airflow, innovations derived using
feedback from Alpinestars involvement in top flight
racing include a newly redesigned front flex area, a
redesigned rear bellow, a redesigned top gaitor, a
new shifter and shin plate, a new shin slider and a
new inner bootie, all of which enhance the comfort,
protection and the performance of this boot to a
new class-leading high.
Available from all Bike Kings Stores Nationwide.
Visit www.bikekings.co.za to shop online or
locate your nearest dealer.

WFX Prime Evo Gore-
Tex® Glove – Ultimate
Winter Riding
Performance
Designed to conquer the harshest winter
conditions, the WFX Prime Evo Gore-Tex®
Glove combines premium materials and
advanced technology for unmatched warmth,
waterproofing, and protection. Crafted from
supple goat leather and Softshell fabric, it
features a Gore-Tex® membrane, PrimaLoft®
Gold insulation, and Five’s exclusive
THERMO+ construction to deliver exceptional
cold-weather comfort.
Evo model takes insulation further. Traditional
gloves leave weak spots between the fingers
(the fourchettes), allowing cold to creep in.
Five’s THERMO+ design solves this with thick
insulation that wraps all the way between the
fingers, boosting heat retention by up to 20%
without sacrificing flexibility or grip.
The glove’s modern construction includes
a Gore-Tex® Grip membrane bonded to
the palm for better control, along with a
lightweight, water-repellent design that
ensures dexterity and tactile feedback even in
freezing rain. Safety isn’t compromised either:
a Five ERGO PROTECH® shell, SuperFabric®
reinforcements**, and a **soft-TPR palm slider
provide top-tier impact protection.
Building on the original WFX Prime—known
for its seamless, heat-sealed topside—the
Whether you’re battling subzero temperatures
or wet, unpredictable weather, the WFX
Prime Evo Gore-Tex® Glove
delivers the perfect balance
of warmth, protection, and
precision control—all in a
lightweight package.
Available from all
Powered by Autocycle
Stores Nationwide. Visit
poweredbyautocycle.co.za
to locate your nearest
dealer.

REVISITED
2024 KTM 890
ADVENTURE R
READY TO
ADVENTURE
KTM has always held a solid reputation for building bikes that favour the bold –
and the 2024 KTM 890 Adventure R continues this legacy. The orange brand’s
mid-weight adventure machine is no longer just a stripped-down rally tool. With
refinements across comfort, performance, and electronics, the latest iteration
of the 890 Adventure R has matured into a more versatile, well-rounded ADV
weapon while still retaining its wild, Dakar-inspired DNA.
We revisited the bike with fresh eyes and a new approach: daily use, touring, trail
riding, even gnarly off-road. The goal? To see just how far the 890 R has come
and how well it copes with life in South African conditions.
Price: Was R289,999, now R269,999 (incl.
R20,000 deal assist + free Tech Pack)
Words by Shaun Portman / Pics by Beam Productions

Visually, the 890 Adventure R remains
unmistakably KTM – aggressive, angular, and
unapologetically function-over-form. The rally-style
front end, tall windscreen, and wide body panels
scream ‘ready to race’. Admittedly, some riders
find the aesthetic polarising, and the liberal use
of plastic around the fairing and tank does raise
concerns over premium finish compared to rivals
like Triumph’s Tiger 900 Rally Pro or Honda’s
Africa Twin.
That said, it looks far more refined in black
and hides dust well after a muddy ride. More
importantly, the design is purposeful, especially
when you factor in the low-slung fuel tanks that
keep the centre of gravity delightfully low.
The 889cc parallel-twin engine remains a
standout feature. Punching out 77 kW (103
hp) and 100 Nm of torque, it strikes the perfect
balance between grunt and manageability.
KTM’s tuning leans more toward excitement than
refinement – and we like that. Throttle response
via the ride-by-wire system is crisp, predictable,
and allows for seamless modulation whether
you’re picking your way through rocky trails or
hammering down a highway.
The particular unit we tested was also fitted
with a Remus slip-on exhaust – and this addition
takes the engine’s character up several notches.
If you’re going to buy this bike, we strongly
recommend it. It adds a deeper, throatier tone that
brings the engine to life, trims weight, and even
bumps up performance. It’s a win-win-win.
Over a week of mixed riding – including
commuting, trail work, fast gravel, and highway
slogs – we averaged around 5.71 liters per 100
km, which is impressive for a bike this capable.
With a 20-litre tank, you’re realistically looking at
350+ km per tank, making this an ideal platform
for long-range adventure without constantly
worrying about fuel stops.
KTM’s decision to equip the 890 Adventure R
with WP Xplor suspension is one of its biggest
assets. The 48mm USD fork and PDS rear shock
offer 240 mm of travel, fully adjustable, and soak
up everything from potholes to deep off-road ruts
with ease. Up front, toolless preload and damping
adjustment make quick setup tweaks a breeze.
The rear still requires tools, which feels like a bit of
an oversight, especially when trailside adjustments
are sometimes needed.
Ground clearance of 263 mm means you
won’t be smashing your bash plate every time you
take a bad line, and the low-slung tank keeps the
bike feeling stable through tight, technical terrain.
Despite its rally-capable DNA, the 890
Adventure R impresses with its nimbleness. For a
200-kilo dry weight motorcycle, it’s astonishingly
flickable. You can actually ride it like you would
a plastic-bodied off-road or enduro bike – and
that translates across road and dirt. One moment
you’re cruising a tame gravel road, and the next
you’re confidently tackling rugged, rutted, rockstrewn
climbs you’d typically only attempt on a
much lighter machine. That’s how confidenceinspiring
this bike is. Over our time with the bike,
we had zero issues – it just oozes and oozes fun.

One note here: the test unit we rode was fitted with
the optional KTM PowerParts tall seat. While it offers
excellent long-distance comfort and more legroom
for taller riders, it did pose a bit of a challenge for me
personally – I’m not the tallest person in the world, and
swinging a leg over or getting flat-footed at a stop was a
stretch. The standard seat height sits at 880 mm, which
is already quite tall, and the taller accessory seat makes
it even more of a reach. Riders on the shorter side might
want to opt for the standard-height seat or one of KTM’s
lower accessory options.
Once on the bike, however, the ergonomics are
superb. The cockpit is rally-inspired but intuitive, the
footpegs are large and grippy, and the seat is wide
enough for hours in the saddle and easy to manoeuvre
on. The screen offers decent wind protection, although
we’d still prefer a hand-adjustable unit.
The 890 Adventure R is loaded with tech. Highlights
include a 5” TFT display with Bluetooth, IMU-assisted
cornering ABS and traction control, Street, Off-
Road, and Rally ride modes, on-the-fly slip control
adjustment, Quickshifter+ (up/down), cruise control, and
smartphone pairing.
Rally mode remains our favourite – full power,
low intervention, and the ability to tailor throttle and
wheelspin to suit your terrain or riding mood. The backlit
switchgear is also a nice touch for night-time riding.
It’s aggressive and versatile, and rewards
confident riders with class-leading
capability – both on and off the beaten track.

Braking is handled by J.Juan hardware, and
the feel and stopping power is excellent. The
twin front discs provide strong bite without
feeling grabby, while the rear brake offers great
modulation and power – especially helpful for
controlling steep off-road descents. You can
disable rear ABS in Off-Road mode, but we’d still
like to see full front/rear ABS kill functionality in a
future update for expert-level riding.
There’s a reason KTM has become
synonymous with adventure riding, and the
2024 890 Adventure R is one of the most
compelling arguments in their lineup. It’s
aggressive and versatile, and rewards confident
riders with class-leading capability – both on
and off the beaten track.
The additions on our test unit – like the
Remus slip-on exhaust and PowerParts tall seat
– further sharpen the bike’s already razor-edged
performance and highlight its massive tuning and
comfort potential.
With the current deal pricing of R269,999
including the Tech Pack, KTM has sweetened the
deal on what is arguably one of the best value-formoney
hardcore adventure bikes on the market
right now.
If you want one bike to commute during
the week, hammer mountain passes on the
weekend, and lose yourself deep in the Karoo
with confidence, the KTM 890 Adventure R may
just be the one bike that does it all.
R109 699
SVARTPILEN 401

Words Adam Child ‘Chad’ | Pics by Milagro
FEEL THE
RIDE
MV BRUTALE
1000 RUSH
RUSHFIRST
The MV Brutale Rush, R699,000, limited to just 300
units worldwide with 209bhp and a bark to match its bite.

When I was 17, I had three posters on my wall:
a white Lamborghini Countach, Pamela Anderson
in a swimsuit, and a Britten motorcycle. If I was
17 again, I’d add a poster of the MV Rush to my
collection, because this is the poster bike of 2020,
assuming 17-year-olds still have posters. Maybe
it’s the screensaver of 2020. Either way, the Rush
is a stunning bike and when it was unveiled at
EICMA in November 2019 jaws hit the floor.
The Rush is a limited edition run of 300 units
of the already highly acclaimed MV Brutale
1000RR. And when your base bike is already
hugely desirable you’re not going to be far off the
mark with the special, in fact it’s a bit like giving
a supermodel a makeover. From every angle it’s
stunning, the huge carbon-enclosed rear wheel,
adaptive cornering headlight, restyled rear end
and small pillion seat, even a neat plate by the
ignition switch to remind you which of the 300
bikes you have – and there’s more carbon than
an F1 car. But as you’d expect the Rush isn’t
a cheap date and is priced at around R760k
with the race kit (with homologated exhaust and
fuelling), and R699,000 in standard form with four
protruding exhausts like those on the 1000RR.
But don’t be fooled, this isn’t just a show bike
– even with the race exhaust it’s still homologated
for Euro 4. And the titanium rodded engine will
produce 209bhp at 13,000rpm in this format.
That is race winning performance in a naked,
carbon clad and sexy chassis.
We headed to Varese, the home of MV in
northern Italy, to put this new and powerful bike
through its paces.
Limited to only 300 units
worldwide, the Rush
1000—with a steel trellis and
aluminum chassis—uses the
Brutale 1000 as its base.
Power from the 998 cc inline
four-cylinder motor is quoted
at an arm-wrenching 208 hp in
stock form and 212 hp when
you add the Rush Racing Kit.
That kit includes a new titanium
exhaust silencer, remapped
ECU and a few carbon-fiber
goodies like passenger-seat
cover and exhaust guard.
Power and torque
209bhp from a normally-aspirated 1000cc
engine would, just a decade ago, have been the
preserve of fragile, race-winning superbikes, not
a road-going engine with normal service intervals.
It’s more powerful than most 1000cc nakeds and
outguns dedicated sports bikes like Kawasaki’s
ZX-10, Yamaha’s R1, and Suzuki’s GSX-R1000.
As you’d expect, peak power and torque are
high up in the rev range, with 117Nm of torque
made at 11,000rpm. The race kit, which consists
of the homologated exhaust and different ECU,
pushes peak power up to 209bhp from 205bhp,
and torque is smoother with a 3% increase. There
is an additional track-only exhaust system that
pushes power even higher and will be available
shortly….. watch this space.
The screaming inline four-cylinder
engine is the same as that found in the MV
Brutale 1000RR. To achieve the impressive
performance figures MV has introduced
titanium conrods, which allow the engine to spin
faster and to higher rpm. There are also new
valve guides and camshafts, which allow new
timings on both the exhaust and intake valves.
Lubrication has been improved, and the amount
of oil needed for the engine has been reduced.
The powerplant now breathes via a new
air-box which is fed from longer air-intakes. On
the standard model, the tuned engine releases
its gases via a gorgeous four-into-one-into-four
exhaust system which is made in partnership with
Arrow. However, the race kit version benefits from
just two exiting exhausts. There’s new ride-by-wire
fuelling with double injectors and four rider modes
(Sport, Race, Rain and Custom).

Engine gearbox and
exhaust
The standard MV Brutale 1000RR sounds
fantastic, but now with the race exhaust, it’s taken
to another level. If the standard bike is Pavarotti,
then the Rush with race exhaust is The Four Great
Tenors plus a full orchestra. At low revs, blipping
the quick-revving engine gives a charismatic growl
and a tantalising indication of what is to come.
Higher in the rev range is an overload of the
senses. North of Varese, up into the mountains,
and each long tunnel was a cacophony of noise
as I quickly fed it gears that allowed the engine to
scream. Thrashing a sweet-sounding MV through
kilometre-long tunnels is highly addictive.
You’ll love the sound of the Rush, and with
peak power at an eye-watering 13,000rpm,
you’ll find yourself constantly revving this Italian
beauty. It loves to rev, and it feels like there is little
mechanical friction as the revs rise so rapidly.
The clutchless quick-shifter is effortless, and
smooth revs perfectly match each gear change.
In the hills it’s hard to ride slowly, as each time
you see the road open up you tap back a few
gears and are propelled forward at an alarming
rate accompanied by that lovely chorus from the
race pipe.
This all sounds wonderful and romantic,
thrashing a R699k MV in the heart of the Italian
countryside, but the downside is that in the real
world there is little go below 6000rpm. In fact, the
party only really gets going above 80000rpm.
The Rush will certainly pull cleanly from low
rpm, and the fuelling is smooth, especially in the
Rain mode, but it feels hesitant. Once or twice I
attempted to overtake slow-moving traffic in 5th
and 6th gear, and the engine felt breathless low
down in the power. It’s not slow, over 200bhp is
never going to be that, and there isn’t a massive
kick of power in the midrange to worry about
either, but like the 1000RR the Rush almost has
two personalities.
Below 8000rpm it’s mild and will go home
early on a school night. Above 800rpm,
especially over 10,000rpm, it wants to throw
a TV out of a hotel window and drive a Rolls-
Royce into a swimming pool.
You could argue that no-one who buys an
MV Rush will want to ride it around town, aside
from posers like myself, of course, so what does

In the final third of the revs,
the Rush just keeps on
accelerating like a race bike.
The semi-dropped café racer
bars would make this speed
almost bearable, and I’d love
to try one on track.
it matter? And, from experience, I know the
1000RR works on the track, and I can see the
same conclusion of the new Rush. MV quotes
a top speed of over 300kph and, with 209bhp, I
can see that. In the final third of the revs, the Rush
just keeps on accelerating like a race bike. The
semi-dropped café racer bars would make this
speed almost bearable, and I’d love to try one on
track. But I’m guessing very few of the 300 will
ever see Mugello or Imola.
Handling
The Rush runs Öhlins semi-active suspension
front and rear, and each riding mode changes
the action of the electronic suspension (Rain is
softer than Race, for example). We only managed
to ride the Rush on the road, mainly in its natural
habitat – mountains – and on the fast-flowing
sections it’s hard to fault. It feels like a race bike

A relatively thin site exaggerates this feeling
further. It’s simple to change the suspension and,
if it was my bike I’d quicky change the Öhlins to
allow a softer ride on the road, which would make
the ride comfier for motorway cruising for rider
and pillion. Speaking of which, the pillion is going
to have to be tiny and brave, but to be honest, they
only upset the handing, so give them the money
to catch a cab.
Brakes
On the road, you shouldn’t really be pushing
the huge Brembo Stylema radial stoppers to
their limit, and after our test ride there were
no complaints. The corning ABS is welcome
support, and on the road isn’t intrusive. One finger
on the span adjustable lever is enough to stop
the rev-happy fun. Again, like the rest of the bike,
the stoppers are race bike spec, you really don’t
need anymore. I know from experience the Bosch
ABS 9 system can be a little intrusive on slick
tyres when pushing for lap times on the track, but
if you’re fitting race tyres and pushing for fast laps
on the Rush, then you’ve bought the wrong bike.
Rider aids and
extra equipment/
accessories
with the bodywork removed, while the café racer
riding position allows you to attack corners with
confidence, and the huge rear 200 section Pirelli
finds endless grip.
The taught suspension copes with everything
you can throw at it, at times whilst riding in
protective jeans, I had to lift up my knee to
avoid it touching. You sit more in the bike than
on, out of the wind, and it’s less physical than
most naked bikes. Everything works: peg
position, rear seat hump… you can really tuck in,
carrying enormous corner speed with no fear of
understeer like some naked bikes which push
the front. The sporty handling will transfer on
track, despite its glamourous looks the Rush will
be more than capable of holding onto a sports
bike on a track day, and even embarrass a few
with superior power.
There is an addictive lean angle and G-Force
display on the full colour dash. You can check
your lean angle mid-corner with a quick glance,
or see the G-Force as you accelerate hard. The
clocks are excellent, and change colour as you
enter tunnels as they react to a lower light level,
but they are a little hard to see when the sunlight
is directly behind you.
However, there is a flip side to the race bike
handling. Even in Rain mode, the suspension
is harsh when the road isn’t race track-smooth,
especially at slower speeds around town over
road imperfections like cobbles, potholes and
speed humps. It’s not like riding a skateboard
over cobbles, it’s not agony, but with such
sophisticated suspension I would expect the ride
to be a little plusher in the Sport and Rain modes.
As you’d expect from a R699k naked superbike,
it’s dripping with rider aids and the very latest
technology and, furthermore, via the full-colour
clocks, they are easy to use and navigate. The
rider aids are clearly shown by a bike illustration
on the right side. A 6-axis IMU is the brains behind
everything which means both traction control
and ABS braking are lean sensitive. There are
eight levels of TC, which can also be de-activated,
again via the dash or your phone on the MV app.
It’s simple and easy to do and clearly shown
on the dash. A real plus point is the dash/bike
remembers your last setting when you reduce the
traction control, so you don’t have to re-set your
traction every time you ride.
MV call its anti-wheelie front lift control, and this
is either on or off, there aren’t multiple settings
unlike most other bikes in this category. The idea
is that the lift control limits the engine’s torque,
which reduces the acceleration slightly to control
the front wheel lift. The front will still hover above
the ground, but you’re still accelerating hard, not
cutting the power with the front end dramatically

dropping and reintroducing again – the pogo
effect some machines have as their electronics try
to control the wheelie. There is also launch control
as standard, plus that up-and-down quick-shifter
and cruise control on the right bar.
The rider aids are excellent, you don’t ‘feel’
the systems working. They are there to keep you
safe, allow you to ride to the conditions and your
style and skill. The switchgear and clear dash
make it easy to flick between modes, even turn
off the traction and front-wheel lift on the move for
some wheelie fun, which, of course, this 209bhp
machine does effortlessly.
But we need to
talk money
Price +\- R760,000 as tested
(R699,000 standard)
It’s a limited edition run of just 300 bikes sold
world-wide but, at over R699k, is a lot of money,
though I’m sure the price will be a drop in the
ocean for some collectors and enthusiasts. There
is a good chance the Rush won’t depreciate and
more than likely become a target for collectors,
while I doubt you’ll see a Rush being ridden
in anything but perfect road conditions. The
standard MV Brutale 1000RR is R499,000, which
means you’re only paying R200k for the limitededition
Rush. That makes it a bargain, doesn’t it?
For reference, the race kit is an extra R50-60k.
The Rush is on par with other exclusive
models like Ducati’s Panigale V4R (R712,900)
and Ducati’s 25 Anniversario 916 Panigale V4
(R755,900). Interestingly, Aprilia’s track-only Tuono
V4X is expected to be around R790k and slightly
more expensive, so the new MV Rush isn’t the
most expensive naked bike on the market.
Will Rush owners consider fuel economy?
I guess they will if they ever run out of fuel. As
the new MV is Euro4 homologated, MV quote
6.7l/1000km, or around 42mpg. With a 16-litre
fuel tank, you’re looking at 225km per tank before
panic sets in. Dependent on how you ride, your
weight and style, I’d estimate you could push
consumption to over 50mpg on a steady run,
and closer to 30mpg on track. MV has fitted
cruise control, which takes the pain out of long
motorway journeys.
NEW PRICE R699,000
CAPACITY 998CC
BORE X STROKE 79 X 50.9MM
ENGINE LAYOUT INLINE FOUR-CYLINDER FOUR STROKE
POWER 208HP @13,000RPM
TORQUE 116.5NM @11000RPM
TANK SIZE 16 LITRES
WHEELBASE 1415MM
SEAT HEIGHT 845MM
DRY WEIGHT 186KG

Verdict
The new MV Rush is double the price of KTM’s
Super Duke R, and a lot more than a Ducati
Streetfighter V4S and has similar performance
and spec as the Ducati. But if you’re looking at
the price tag, then you’re looking at the wrong
bike. This is the Lamborghini or Ferrari of the
bike world, price is almost insignificant, it’s how
the bike performs, sounds, looks, and ultimately
how it makes you feel.
Riding in the hills north of Varese, letting the
engine scream through the hand-cut tunnels that
bore through the mountain, hitting the passes
and sweeping bends is paradise. The is the bike
James Bond should be riding, it sounds and
looks fantastic, and handles like a race bike with
no bodywork. Yes, it’s not very comfortable, the
suspension is harsh around town, and there are
a few niggles like reflections in the dash. But you
don’t buy a Ferrari because it’s comfortable and
has good boot space, and I don’t think anyone
has ever complained about their Lamborghini
passenger comfort. If you’re looking at the price
tag, fuel economy, and comfort, walk away, this is
a bike you own because you love it.

BACK
ON TRACK
RACING
FEATURE
2025 BRITISH
SUPERBIKES
OULTON PARK OPENER – RAY DOMINATES, TRAGEDY STRIKES
The opening round of the 2025 Bennetts British
Superbike Championship at Oulton Park was
meant to be a celebration—the beginning of
another season of high-speed drama, fierce
rivalries, and rising stars. Instead, what began as
a promising weekend of thrilling on-track action
ended in heartbreak and mourning, casting
a sombre tone over what should have been a
triumphant return to racing.
BY RACHEL BOURNE | PHOTOS: RACHEL BOURNE – BOURNE PHOTO

Bradley Ray marked his full-time return to British
Superbikes in the most commanding way possible.
From the moment the lights went out in Race
1, Ray was untouchable. Piloting his Raceways
Yamaha with precision and pace, he wasted
no time pulling away from the pack, eventually
crossing the line nearly two seconds ahead of his
nearest rival. A new in-race lap record underlined
his dominance and showed that Ray means
business in 2025. It was a textbook performance—
clean, composed, and confident—reminding
everyone why he’s a former champion and a
genuine title threat this season.
While Ray’s victory was a masterclass in
control, Glenn Irwin’s second-place finish was
a showcase in resilience. Having crashed in
qualifying and barely scraping into Q2, Irwin had
to launch his race from 14th on the grid. What
followed was a calculated and aggressive charge
through the field that saw him picking off riders
with every lap. By the eighth lap, he had clawed
his way into podium contention, and a brave move
on Leon Haslam sealed a remarkable second
place. It was a ride of true grit and determination—
one of the finest of his career.
Leon Haslam, meanwhile, proved that age
is merely a number. The veteran rider, now
competing for Moto Rapido Ducati, showed no
signs of slowing down. His pace and race craft
were evident throughout, holding his own against
younger rivals and finishing a strong third in Race
1. Behind him, Storm Stacey turned heads with a
spirited fourth-place ride, carving through the field
aboard the Bathams AJN Racing BMW. Stacey’s
raw pace and fearless approach suggest he may
be a breakout star in the making.
Kyle Ryde, ever consistent, recovered from a
mid-pack start to finish fifth, while Tommy Bridewell
endured a frustrating race, fading from the top five
to tenth in the closing stages. Issues with setup or
tyres may have played a role, but it was clear the
Honda Racing UK rider was not yet comfortable.
Further down the order, rookie Scott Swann
impressed with a 12th-place finish for Send
My Bag Racing, showing maturity well beyond
his years. Rory Skinner also showed flashes of
speed, finishing just ahead of Swann in 11th
for Cheshire Mouldings Ducati. South Africa’s
Blaze Baker made his British Superbike debut in
difficult circumstances, dealing with mechanical
issues and limited track time to finish 21st.
Though not the result he’d hoped for, it was a
valuable first step into one of the toughest national
championships in the world.
Race 2—the weekend’s sprint contest—brought
renewed drama and another shake-up at the front.
This time, it was Haslam who rose to the top, taking
a stunning win in a fiercely contested 12-lap dash.
His fastest lap of the race, a 1:32.817, proved
decisive as he held off a fast-charging Irwin by just
0.169 seconds. Ray completed the podium in third,
less than a quarter of a second behind Irwin. It was
a thrilling showcase of racecraft and courage, with
all three riders separated by mere tenths.
Ryde again demonstrated his consistency
by finishing fourth, while Stacey backed up his
earlier result with another top-five finish—just
0.070 seconds off Ryde’s rear wheel. The
midfield battles were just as intense, with riders
like Danny Kent, Charlie Nesbitt, and Christian
Iddon locked in tight contests throughout.
Bridewell once again struggled to maintain pace,
finishing outside the top ten.
But any celebrations that might have followed
were quickly cut short. During the Quattro Group
British Supersport Championship race—held
shortly after the BSB sprint—tragedy struck.
On the opening lap, a terrifying crash involving
11 riders unfolded at Old Hall Corner. The race
was immediately red-flagged, and emergency
medical teams rushed to the scene. The incident
claimed the lives of two talented riders—Owen
Jenner, aged 21, and Shane Richardson, aged 29.

Jenner suffered a severe head injury and passed away
despite rapid medical intervention. Richardson, a beloved
figure in both the UK and New Zealand racing scenes,
sustained fatal chest injuries and succumbed while en route
to hospital. Both riders had bright futures ahead of them, and
their loss has left the paddock in mourning.
Tom Tunstall was also seriously injured, suffering damage
to his back and abdomen. He remains hospitalised. Five other
riders sustained less severe injuries, and three were fortunate
to walk away unharmed. In light of the incident, MSVR made
the decision to cancel all remaining races for the weekend, a
difficult but necessary call in respect for those affected.
What began as a celebration of racing turned into a
moment of reflection for the entire motorsport community.
Tributes flowed in from across the BSB paddock and beyond,
honouring the lives of Jenner and Richardson. Their passion
for racing, their spirit, and their friendships will not be forgotten.
Oulton Park will now be remembered not only for the
brilliant return of Bradley Ray and the resurgence of Leon
Haslam, but also for the lives lost in the pursuit of speed
and glory. As the season continues, the paddock will carry
their memory forward—racing on in their honour, but never
forgetting the ultimate price some pay for the sport they love.
It was a gritty start to the 2025 Bennetts British
Superbike Championship for rookie Blaze Baker
and the NPracing Honda squad. After a pre-season
marred by mechanical issues and ongoing setup
challenges, the team lined up at Oulton Park
determined to push forward.
Blaze brought the bike home in 21st in Race 1 – a
tough result on paper, but an important finish as
the team continues to collect crucial data and dial
in the NPracing Honda package. Every lap counts
in this competitive field, and despite the setbacks,
Blaze is staying focused and hungry for progress.
We’ve seen what Blaze is capable of – and both he
and the team know there’s more in the tank. The
hard work continues as they aim to move further
up the grid in Race 2 and beyond.

DAVID LINDEMANN
IMPRESSES IN BRITISH
SUPERBIKE DEBUT AT
OULTON PARK
As the season progresses, expect Lindemann
to bounce back stronger and more determined.
The BSB paddock has taken notice – and so has
South Africa.
South African youngster David Lindemann made a
striking debut in the 2025 AJN Steelstock Kawasaki
British Superteen Championship this past weekend
at Oulton Park, showcasing both speed and
promise in what turned out to be a dramatic and
encouraging first outing on UK soil.
After a strong showing in free practice,
Lindemann underlined his potential in qualifying
by storming to pole position with a blistering time of
1:48.682, topping a competitive field of riders from
across the UK and abroad. His performance turned
heads in the paddock and set the stage for what
looked to be a breakout weekend.
In Race 1, Lindemann showed incredible
composure and race craft. Despite a red flag
incident that disrupted the rhythm of the race, he
maintained focus and managed to bring it home
in a brilliant third place, giving his HCL Car Salesbacked
team their first podium of the season. It was
a strong start to his BSB journey, filled with glimpses
of the speed and grit he brings from his South
African racing background.
Determined to go one better, Lindemann entered
Race 2 with his eyes on the top step of the podium.
The pace was there, and he was well in the fight
for victory, pushing hard and battling at the front.
Unfortunately, his race ended in a high-side crash
that brought a premature and painful conclusion
to the weekend. Luckily, David escaped relatively
unharmed, but the same cannot be said for his bike,
which sustained considerable damage in the fall.
While the final result wasn’t what he or the team
had hoped for, the message was clear: David
Lindemann is a name to watch. From claiming pole
in qualifying to earning a debut podium, he showed
maturity beyond his years and the raw talent
required to succeed on the international stage.

Viva La Zarco
HISTORIC
HOMECOMING
MOTOGP
2025 FRENCH
GRAND PRIX
ZARCO’S TRIUMPH HEADLINES UNFORGETTABLE 2025 FRENCH GRAND PRIX
The 2025 French Grand Prix at Le Mans was
nothing short of spectacular—a weekend bursting
with emotion, drama, and history-making
moments that will be talked about for years to
come. From the roar of the home crowd to the
heartbreaks and heroics seen across every
class, the iconic Bugatti Circuit once again
delivered a true motorsport epic.
BY GREG MOLONEY

For South African fans, the spotlight fell on young
Kgopotso “KJ” Mononyane in the Red Bull
MotoGP Rookies Cup. The talented youngster was
thrown into the deep end in a fiercely competitive
field, and yet, handled the occasion with
composure and grit. In qualifying, despite being
caught in heavy traffic and struggling to find a
clean lap, KJ managed to secure P18. That would
set the stage for a rollercoaster pair of races.
Race 1 saw KJ making impressive progress,
running inside the top 15 and holding 14th place
for several laps. Unfortunately, his debut ended in
dramatic fashion with a crash in the final stages,
which also brought down other riders and caused
the race to be red-flagged. Thankfully, all riders
escaped serious injury. In Race 2, with rain falling
and chaos unfolding around him, KJ showed
maturity beyond his years by keeping his head
down and bringing it home in 14th position. It was
a hard-earned finish in treacherous conditions
and a vital learning experience on the road to
what promises to be a bright career.
Elsewhere on the South African front, Ruche
Moodley was absent from the French GP due to
his fractured arm injury picked up at the previous
round at Jerez. Moto2 contender, Darryn Binder,
suffered a frightening accident during Friday’s
practice session. Binder collided with Zonte van
den Goorbergh and, in a freak turn of events, saw
his arm caught in the Dutch rider’s rear wheel
as both slid through the gravel. The result was a
broken arm, ruling Darryn out of the Grand Prix
and a foot injury for Zonte. It was a devastating
setback for the ever-determined Binder, whose
absence on the grid was felt deeply.
In Moto3, the next generation of stars
continued to shine. Máximo Quiles stunned the
field by grabbing pole position in just his second
world championship race, with Guido Pini lining
up alongside him—evidence of a changing of the
guard in the lightweight class. However, it was the
experienced Jose Antonio Rueda who prevailed
when it mattered most. In a chaotic final lap that
saw Joel Kelso and David Muñoz collide in the
battle for the win as David sent it up the inside
of Joel on the final corner, Rueda capitalised on
the moment and surged through to take victory
The terrifying crash involving
Darryn Binder and Zonta van
den Goorbergh that ruled
Darryn out of the French Grand
Prix with a fractured arm. It’s
been a tough season for him so
far, with luck clearly not on his
side. We’re wishing him a swift
recovery and hope he finds
some consistent form soon.
at the line. As for South Africa’s Ruche Moodley,
he remains on the sidelines as he recovers from
injuries sustained at Jerez.
Moto2 delivered another electrifying contest,
with Manuel Gonzalez proving once again why
he is the man to beat in 2025. The Spaniard
claimed a commanding win ahead of Barry
Baltus and Aron Canet, giving Fantic Racing a
stunning double podium. The intermediate class
continues to live up to its reputation as the most
unpredictable and closely fought of them all.

But it was the premier class that delivered the
most unforgettable chapter of the weekend’s script.
On Saturday, Fabio Quartararo sent the French
faithful into raptures with a record-breaking pole
position, his performance underlining just how
much the home race means to him. But it was
Marc Márquez who stole the Sprint spotlight, taking
his sixth consecutive Sprint race victory in typically
ruthless fashion. His brother Álex joined him on the
podium in second, while rookie sensation Fermín
Aldeguer completed the top three with his first
MotoGP Sprint podium—an extraordinary result in a
breakout season.
THEN CAME SUNDAY.
In what will go down as one of the most emotional
wins in recent history, Johann Zarco delivered a
fairy-tale performance in front of a home crowd
desperate for glory. Racing for the Castrol Honda
LCR team, Zarco overcame early-race adversity,
dropping outside the points and running off the
track after the Lap 1 incident triggered by Enea
Bastianini, before beginning a stunning charge
through the field. Opting for wet tyres amid
unpredictable weather, he began to pick off his
rivals one by one as they pitted to change from
slicks. As the rain returned and others faltered,
Zarco surged to the front, taking the lead on Lap 8
and never looking back.

When the chequered flag dropped, it marked
not just his first win with Honda, but the end of a
71-year wait for a French rider to win the French
GP. Not since Pierre Monneret’s victory in 1954
had the French anthem played for a home-grown
premier class hero. The roar from the Le Mans
crowd was deafening as Zarco crossed the line
nearly 20 seconds clear of the field. It was history,
it was redemption, and it was everything MotoGP
fans live for.
An emotional Zarco reflected on the moment,
saying, “It’s very special, it’s hard to believe that
it can happen. I always believed one day I could
win, and I love the history of this sport. To write
my own line in that history, to be the first French
winner at home since 1954, it’s just… wow.”
Meanwhile, it was a weekend to forget for the
two time world champion Francesco Bagnaia.
After showing promising pace in qualifying, he
unfortunately crashed out early in the Sprint race.
To add to his tricky weekend, disaster struck in
the main race when he was caught up in a Turn
2, Lap 1 incident caused by a late-braking Enea
Bastianini. Bagnaia rejoined the race after a bike
swap but could only manage 16th—finishing
outside the points and suffering a costly blow to
his title aspirations.
As the curtain falls on a dramatic French Grand
Prix, the focus now shifts to Silverstone. With
championship battles heating up and the season
approaching its midpoint, one thing is clear: 2025
is shaping up to be one of the most compelling
MotoGP seasons in years.

ZARCO ENDS FRANCE’S 71-YEAR
WAIT FOR HOME GRAND PRIX GLORY
It was a Sunday to remember for Johann
Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR) at the Michelin
Grand Prix of France. The Frenchman delivered
a masterclass in treacherous conditions to claim
an extraordinary victory by 19.907 seconds — his
first win with Honda in the premier class, and
Honda’s first since the 2023 Americas GP.
But this wasn’t just any win. Zarco ended a 71-
year drought, becoming the first French rider to
win the French Grand Prix in the top class since
Pierre Monneret in 1954. The crowd at Le Mans
erupted with every lap, urging the #5 rider toward
his historic triumph.
After a chaotic opening lap, Zarco found
himself outside the points. Undeterred, and with
wet tyres fitted, he began steadily carving through
the field. By Lap 6, he had broken into the top 10.
As rain returned, Zarco’s pace surged — and by
Lap 8, he had taken the lead, never looking back.
Speaking after the race, an emotional Zarco
reflected on the significance of the moment:
“It’s very special, it’s hard to believe. I race
to win and to be on the podium — I’ve always
believed I could do it. The way it happened was
surreal. I had to stay patient, stay in control, and let
the victory come to me. It was so special.”
“I love the history of motorbikes, I’ve watched
all the old races and know many great riders from
the past. To now write my own line in that history,
to be the French winner at the French GP — wow.
It means so much.”
A weekend full of records, emotion, and
unexpected twists now sets the stage for the
next showdown at Silverstone. With momentum
building and the championship heating up, all
eyes turn to the British Grand Prix.

RACING
FEATURE
2025 NORTH
WEST 200
ROAD RAGE
SCORCHING SPEED, LOCAL GLORY, AND SOUTH AFRICAN GRIT: THE 2025
BRIGGS EQUIPMENT NORTH WEST 200 DELIVERS ON EVERY FRONT
A weekend of radiant sunshine and roaring engines unfolded on Northern
Ireland’s stunning North Coast as the 2025 Briggs Equipment North West 200
delivered a spectacle to remember. Against the backdrop of the famed Triangle
circuit — linking Portstewart, Coleraine, and Portrush — tens of thousands of fans
packed the hedgerows and grandstands, treated to world-class racing across
Supersport, Superstock, Supertwin, and Superbike classes. And while many
expected fierce competition, few could have predicted just how rich the narrative
of this year’s NW200 would become — from local heroes rising, to bitter disputes
and breakout rides from unexpected names.
The undisputed headline on Thursday night
belonged to Ballymoney’s own Michael Dunlop.
A rider so synonymous with road racing’s legacy,
Dunlop rolled back the years and silenced any
doubters by claiming two dramatic victories — his
first NW200 wins since 2016. First came the
Fraser Homes Supersport race, where Dunlop
aboard the Milwaukee V2 Ducati dug deep in
a thrilling duel with Richard Cooper and Davey
Todd. The home fans erupted as he edged to
the line, his victory not just emotional but defiant.
Later that evening, he returned for the Amici
Ristorante Superstock race and delivered again,
this time guiding his MD Racing BMW to the top
step after a bruising battle with Dean Harrison
and a resurgent Ian Hutchinson. For “Hutchy,”
who stood on the podium representing Michael
Laverty’s new MLAV Racing BMW outfit, it was a
fairy-tale moment in itself.

Dunlop’s wins carried added weight given
the circumstances. He had crashed during
Thursday qualifying but emerged undeterred —
battle-worn but sharp as ever. “It’s been years
of frustration at this place,” he said afterward.
“To finally win again lifts a massive weight.” The
crowd, basking in golden light and home pride,
responded with thunderous support.
If Thursday belonged to Dunlop, Davey Todd
wasn’t far behind. Earlier that day, he secured
his first-ever Superbike win in the Milwaukee
Superbike race, leading home Dean Harrison
and Peter Hickman in what was a hard-fought
and significant moment in his career. With his
Milwaukee BMW team operating like a finely tuned
machine, Todd looked every bit a man ready to
contend across the entire road racing season.
Come Saturday, the intensity only grew.
A six-race program unfolded under clear
skies, and it wasted no time delivering drama.
Richard Cooper opened the day with another
masterclass in Supertwin, fending off a
determined Adam McLean in the closing stages.
The result marked Cooper’s second Supertwin
win of the event and a continuation of his
growing dominance in the class.
Controversy arrived not long after, though,
during the Briggs Superbike race. Michael
Dunlop was initially penalised after running
on at Mather’s chicane without stopping in
the penalty box — a move that Peter Hickman,
who committed the same error, did correct.
However, Dunlop’s penalty was later overturned,
reinstating him as the winner and triggering
frustration from rival teams and riders. Davey
Todd, who felt robbed of a rightful victory, didn’t
mince words: “As far as I’m concerned, I won.
But it’s his backyard, isn’t it?”
Redemption, though, would come quickly
for Todd. In the CP Hire Superstock race, he
returned to the top with a determined ride,
beating Harrison and Hickman by less than
six-tenths of a second in a breathtaking threeway
fight to the finish. “This was personal,” Todd
admitted. “We got it done.”
The day’s chaos continued in the Supertwin
finale, where Cooper and McLean collided at
Juniper Chicane, opening the door for Paul
Jordan to snatch a dramatic maiden NW200
win aboard the Jackson Racing Aprilia. Emotion
poured out of the local favourite as he soaked
in the moment. “It’s been a tough week — this is
unreal. A win at the NW200… finally!”

The Feature Superbike race brought the curtain
down in unpredictable fashion. Red-flagged
following a crash at Quarry Hill, the shortened
race was called with enough distance completed,
and Davey Todd was declared the winner — his
second of the day and a fitting conclusion to
an up-and-down weekend. Behind him, Dean
Harrison and Alastair Seeley completed the
podium. Dunlop retired despite setting the fastest
lap, while Hickman exited early on lap one.
Amidst all the established names and
international stars, a quieter, yet equally stirring
story was being written by South African privateer
AJ Venter. Flying the flag for TH Racing, Venter
lined up in both Supersport and Supertwin
categories and became a standout figure among
the underdogs of the event.
His Supersport campaign began with a solid
23rd in Race 1, but in Race 2, Venter unleashed
one of the rides of the weekend — surging to 13th
overall and topping the Group B timesheets by

nearly nine seconds. Yet it was in the Supertwin
class that the former Moto3 wildcard made his
biggest statement. After qualifying inside the
top 10, Venter raced to an excellent sixth in the
opener. In the second race, with chaos unfolding
ahead, he remained composed and pushed
through to a sensational fourth-place finish — just
one step away from a podium.
For a rider operating without the big teams,
budgets, or factory resources, it was a remarkable
achievement. On a circuit that rewards bravery
and precision in equal measure, Venter proved
he had both in abundance. Fans quickly
took notice of the gritty South African, whose
performances were matched only by his humility
and determination in the paddock.
As the curtain fell on the 2025 North West
200, the racing world’s focus shifted toward the
looming Isle of Man TT. But the echoes of this
extraordinary weekend will linger — in the roar
of the bikes, the emotional podium celebrations,
and the emergence of new and familiar heroes.
For Michael Dunlop, a long-awaited
homecoming was realised. For Davey Todd, it
was confirmation of a rider now fully matured
and ready to lead. For Richard Cooper, a week
of dominance etched his name further into
Supertwin folklore. And for AJ Venter, it was the
beginning of a journey that may yet light up the
Mountain Course.
From the paddocks of Portrush to the
grandstands of Glencrutchery Road, all eyes now
turn to the Isle of Man. But as road racing’s elite
pack their leathers and chase the next chapter,
one truth is clear — momentum matters, and
South Africa’s AJ Venter is carrying plenty of it.
Watch this space.
SPEED MEETS SPOTLIGHT!
Formula-K Prepares for Nighttime Action
New lighting installation marks a bold step into after-dark motorsports at the popular racing
venue.
Formula-K, Benoni’s karting and motorsport venue, is making headlines again—this time by
flipping the switch on an ambitious lighting project designed to bring night racing to life.
The newly installed spotlights, which illuminate the track with precision and safety in mind,
will allow the facility to extend its racing well into the evening. This marks a major upgrade for
the venue and a long-awaited development for motorsport fans and racers alike.
Night racing is set to bring a new
dimension to Formula-K's event
calendar, with extended race days
and night-time karting leagues.
The lighting system, composed of
high-intensity, energy-efficient
LEDs, covers 1350 meters of the
circuit, ensuring maximum visibility
and safety for drivers competing
after sunset.
1350 meters of tar will be lit for the first FKR
(Formula-K Racing) event on 3 May 2025.
www.formula-k.co.za 7 Golden Drive Benoni
072 890 0103

RACING PAGES
Mathew Scholtz entered the round as the
reigning Supersport champion and wasted no
time in reasserting his dominance. Riding for the
ever-developing Strack Racing Yamaha team, he
lit up the timing screens during qualifying and set
a new lap record en route to pole position. Scholtz
looked dialed in and comfortable, his synergy
with the R9 platform clearer than ever. While his
Saturday race was hindered by what looked like a
wrong setup that dulled his edge on the wet track,
he still brought the bike home in fifth place—vital
championship points in the bag.
Sunday, however, belonged to Scholtz. In dry
and perfect conditions, he delivered a clinic in
racecraft. From lights out to the checkered flag, he
controlled the Supersport Main with confidence
and speed. Neither PJ Jacobsen nor Blake Davis
had an answer for his pace, and Scholtz claimed
a commanding win, making it clear the #1 plate is
far from safe in Jacobsen’s hands so far in 2025.
Cameron Petersen’s weekend was a story
of grit and resilience. The Warhorse HSBK
Racing Ducati rider suffered a heavy fall during
Supersport qualifying, which unfortunately
SA RIDER
WATCH
The rolling hills
and technical
challenges of Michelin
Raceway Road Atlanta played host to Round 2 of
the 2025 MotoAmerica Championship, and amid
the roar of engines and the tension of high-stakes
competition, South Africa’s trio of elite racers stood
tall. With rain, sunshine, crashes, comebacks,
and podium glory packed into three days of
drama, Mathew Scholtz, Cameron Petersen, and
Dominic Doyle reminded the paddock—and fans
MOTOAMERICA 2025 – ROUND 2
SOUTH AFRICAN
STARS SHINE AT
ROAD ATLANTA
worldwide—that Mzansi’s finest are true contenders
in the American racing scene.
Set against the lush backdrop of Braselton,
Georgia, Road Atlanta is no easy playground. The
2.55-mile circuit is famous for its punishing rhythm,
blind corners, elevation changes, and a back
straight that tests both horsepower and bravery.
Add to that shifting weather conditions and one of
the most competitive MotoAmerica grids in years,
and you get a weekend where only the sharpest
minds and strongest wills would survive.

RACING PAGES
SA RIDER
WATCH
ruled him out of Baggers action. Nursing an injury,
Petersen qualified deep in the Supersport field, starting
Saturday’s wet race from 28th. But in classic Petersen
fashion, he fought through the pain and the field,
climbing up to fourth by the end. His ride was one of
the standout performances of the weekend—not just for
its pace, but for the heart and determination it required.
Sunday’s Race 2 saw Petersen back in the mix, this
time under blue skies. Despite lingering discomfort,
he brought the Panigale home in fifth, once again
proving that he’s not only adapting to the new Ducati
platform but building toward bigger results as his health
improves and confidence returns.
Meanwhile, in the Super Hooligans category, Dominic
Doyle continued to turn heads. Competing aboard the
Giaccmoto-prepared Yamaha MT-09 SP, Doyle was up
against an immense 31-rider grid that included a host
of factory-backed Harleys and seasoned American
veterans. Qualifying seventh in such company was
impressive on its own, but his performances in the
races told the real story. Doyle showed maturity and
consistency in the rain-soaked opener, finishing fourth
with a clean, composed ride. He returned on Sunday
with another smart and fast run, claiming fifth in the
dry. It was a weekend that underlined his growth and
signaled his intention to fight for the Super Hooligans
title in 2025.
As the dust settled on Road Atlanta, South Africa’s
impact on MotoAmerica was impossible to ignore.
Scholtz left Georgia second in the Supersport
standings, just eight points off the top. Petersen,
despite injury setbacks, sits eighth and climbing. Doyle
now holds fifth in Super Hooligans, showing remarkable
poise in just his second full season at this level.
Together, these three have given South African fans
much to cheer for. But more than that, they’ve sent a
clear message to the paddock: the talent coming out of
the southern tip of Africa isn’t just world-class—it’s here
to win. With Round 3 looming at Road America, the
pressure will only intensify, but if Road Atlanta was any
indication, the South African flag won’t be just flying—
it’ll be charging forward.

RACING PAGES
Behind him, Malcolm Stewart silenced any
doubts with a gritty and composed ride to second
place. The Rockstar Energy Husqvarna rider has
battled inconsistency this season, but his late-year
form came alive when it mattered most. Stewart’s
second-place finish was not just a podium—it was
a well-earned reward for perseverance, proving he
still belongs among the sport’s elite.
Justin Cooper also had plenty to celebrate,
taking home his first-ever 450SX podium with a
third-place finish. The Monster Energy Yamaha
Star Racing rider has spent much of the year
finding his feet in the premier class, but his Salt
Lake City performance showed he’s ready to take
the next step. Smooth, confident, and consistent,
Cooper’s ride marked a career milestone and
hinted at a bright future.
S A L T L A K E C I T Y S U P E R C R O S S W R A P - U P
SEXTON WINS THE BATTLE,
WEBB WINS THE WAR
The 2025 Monster Energy AMA Supercross
Championship came to a thrilling and
unforgettable conclusion under the lights of
Salt Lake City, delivering everything fans could
have hoped for—and more. A sold-out Rice-
Eccles Stadium bore witness to a night of
redemption, dominance, celebration, and legacydefining
moments as Chase Sexton claimed a
commanding win in the 450SX Main Event, while
Cooper Webb sealed his third premier-class title
with another calculated, champion’s ride. But the
story didn’t end there—on a night packed with
drama, Tom Vialle made history by clinching his
second consecutive 250SX East title, while Haiden
Deegan stamped his authority with another
sensational win, having already wrapped up the
250SX West championship in the previous round.
For Sexton, the season finale was a statement.
The HRC Honda rider has faced challenges
throughout the year, but in Utah, he delivered a
reminder of the raw speed and control that made
him a title favorite. From the moment the gate
dropped, Sexton was locked in. He found his
rhythm early and carved through the technical Salt
Lake circuit with near perfection. His fastest lap of
46.710 seconds, set midway through the race, was
a snapshot of his dominance. Crossing the line with
a total race time of 21:36.924, Sexton ended his
season on the highest of highs and set the tone for
what promises to be a fierce 2026 campaign.

RACING PAGES
But while the top three shared the spotlight,
Cooper Webb quietly secured the crown jewel of
the evening. Riding with his trademark blend of
composure and race intelligence, the Red Bull
KTM star did exactly what he needed to do. Fourth
place on the night was more than enough to seal
his third AMA Supercross championship, adding
2025 to the titles he claimed in 2019 and 2021.
Webb’s strength has never just been raw speed—
it’s his relentless consistency, mental resilience,
and uncanny ability to deliver under pressure. This
season, he outsmarted and outlasted some of
the sport’s best, and in doing so, added another
chapter to an already storied career.
The action didn’t stop in the 450s. The East/West
250 Showdown delivered a thrilling display, with
Yamaha’s Haiden Deegan putting in a performance
that further fueled the hype surrounding the young
sensation. Nicknamed “Danger Boy,” Deegan
exploded off the line, grabbed the holeshot, and
never looked back. His victory was as much a show
of dominance as it was a warning shot for his rivals
heading into the outdoor season. It was the perfect
encore to what has already been a landmark
season for the young star.
Deegan had already sealed the 250SX West
Championship one week earlier at Round 16
in Denver, where he delivered a title-clinching
performance with a win that left no doubts. His
blend of raw speed, fearless style, and race
maturity have elevated him to elite status, and with
the West title under his belt, the Yamaha prodigy
will now look to carry that momentum into the Pro
Motocross season.
Meanwhile, in the 250SX East division, Tom Vialle
wrote his own chapter of success. The French KTM
rider wrapped up his second consecutive AMA
Supercross title, becoming the 2025 250SX East
Champion and defending his crown with precision
and poise. Known for his silky-smooth riding style
and deep motocross pedigree, Vialle adapted
brilliantly to the American Supercross landscape.
His journey from MX2 World Champion in Europe
to double champion in the U.S. has been nothing short
of spectacular, and with two Supercross titles now in his
collection, all eyes turn to what he can do in the great
outdoors.
As the final fireworks lit up the Utah sky and the 2025
Supercross season officially came to a close, the sport
once again reminded us why we love it—pure adrenaline,
unrelenting drama, and the stories of champions rising
to the occasion. Chase Sexton showed he’s still a major
player, Malcolm Stewart and Justin Cooper proved they
belong at the front, and Cooper Webb—methodical,
masterful, magnificent—cemented his legacy as a threetime
AMA Supercross champion. In the 250 class, Tom
Vialle confirmed his supremacy, while Haiden Deegan
proved the future is already here.
It’s been a season to remember—and with Pro Motocross
just around the corner, the journey is far from over.